KUCHING: Newly named Sarawak women’s rugby captain Cuthberta Entai admits to nerves and excitement ahead of women’s 15s national league debut.
“This is my first time playing 15s — and doing it with this group of girls makes it even more special.
“It’s scary, honestly, but exciting too. It’s a mix of feelings,” she said.
The tournament marks a fresh chapter for Sarawak women’s rugby and a long-awaited return to the field for Cuthberta, last seen at the Keningau 10s in Sabah, last year.
Now back in action with Sarawak, she takes on a new role as flanker — positions that coach Stephen Patrick believes will allow her to maximise her impact on the field.
“I’m usually a prop or hooker, but this time the coach wants me to play flanker. He sees potential in me there, so I’ll give it a go,” she told Sarawak Tribune when met here last night (Apr 25).
Asked about her goals as team captain, Cuthberta said her focus is on using her experience to guide and uplift her teammates.
“I just want to share all the knowledge I’ve gained from playing at the national level.
“Some of our girls haven’t played in a long time, so it’s really about helping them gain back that confidence, she said.
She added that while the team isn’t setting unrealistic targets for their debut campaign, they’re focused on exposure and growth.
“We don’t expect too much — if we win, it’s a bonus. But this is a chance for Sarawak women’s rugby to shine.
“There are a lot of girls in Sarawak who play rugby, but after school, they don’t always have a path forward.
“This 15s tournament is giving us seniors a way to reunite, to come back to the game, and to inspire others.”
Sarawak’s campaign kicks off this weekend as part of the MSNS-KRS Rugby League, which runs from April 26 to July 7.
